Social startups seek like-minded passengers for airline seat buddies

Most business travelers want Wi-Fi on flights to presumably get work done, but these startups think fliers would be better off foregoing private time to make a meaningful or friendly connection.

— Samantha Shankman

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A new generation of online services are promising to turn business travel into a more rewarding and social experience by introducing professionals to like-minded travelers, either on the plane or at their destination.

Planely is an introduction service for fliers to meet fellow passengers … Satisfly uses a different model, allowing travelers on participating airlines to indicate their ideal preference for a seat partner on a flight … Maiden Voyage has been offering female business travelers the opportunity to meet other female executives on the road.

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